Kiama came alive with the sounds of guitar, drums, bass and brass this weekend, as the 27th annual Jazz and Blues festival took over the entire town.

More than 50 acts played through 30 cafes, restaurants and clubs between Friday and Sunday, treating punters to over 60 free concerts.

Festival director Ross Eggleton called the event ‘‘phenomenal,’’ citing support of the community, bands and venues.

‘‘It has been our biggest festival ever,’’ he said, saying spectators numbered in the thousands across the weekend.

‘‘All the venues have been totally full, and everyone is saying it has been the best variety of music we’ve ever had.’’

Illawarra jazz/hip-hop crossover band Dlinkwnt played Kiama Leagues Club on Friday night. The nine-piece band had their festival debut in 2013, and frontman Nicholas Johnson said their second year had been even better.

‘‘Everyone there was in good spirits, and there has just been good vibes all through the town,’’ he said.

‘‘They have done well in supporting young artists on the festival.’’

Ulladulla-based Genevieve Chadwick played twice over the weekend, and had similar praise for the event.

‘‘For a free festival, it’s awesome. It was my first time playing but I’d come back in a heartbeat.’’

Mr Eggleton said he wanted to thank all those who came to watch.

‘‘There isn’t that much genuine live music around anymore, so to have people come out and support this is amazing.’’